DHSS Press Release

MEASLES CASE IDENTIFIED

Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) confirmed a case of measles in a 6-year-old girl from Clayton. The case was clinically
diagnosed by the child's physician on Jan. 13 and confirmed by Lab Corp on Jan. 23. The child was not hospitalized and did not
suffer any complications due to the illness. DPH notified the child's school, Caravel Academy, of her illness. The child had been
previously vaccinated for measles and had not traveled recently. No other cases have been identified as a result of exposure to
this case at this time. Caravel Academy has notified appropriate staff and parents and has been following DPH's recommendations.

In an era of measles elimination, measles is very rare in the United States. DPH has only confirmed five cases since 1995. However,
measles is a common disease in many other countries and can result in infection during international travel. Measles, also called
rubeola, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles causes fever, runny nose, cough and generalized rash.
Complications of measles include pneumonia, encephalitis, ear infection, diarrhea and, in severe cases, death. The best prevention
against measles is immunization with the combination vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella. While measles vaccine is highly
effective, no vaccine provides 100 percent immunity. All children and adolescents should receive two doses, given at least four
weeks apart. Most children are vaccinated at 12-15 months and receive the second dose at 4-6 years of age.

Measles can be difficult to diagnose largely due to the sporadic nature of the disease and the widespread occurrence of other
rash-causing illnesses. Due to the public health significance of the disease, it is very important that any suspect case of measles
be confirmed using laboratory-based methods instead of relying solely on a clinical diagnosis.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health
and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.